In Chinese medicine, massage occupies a special place. There are a huge number of execution techniques, they are not similar to each other and affect the body in different ways. Gouache massage is a unique, interesting and simple technique. During the procedure, a gouache scraper is used, which affects the skin of the patient. The positive effect depends not only on the professionalism of the master, but also on the correctly selected device. In this article we will get acquainted with the types of scrapers, their features and massage techniques.
Types of scrapers
For Chinese massage, special guasha scrapers are used, which can be of various shapes. The main rule is the absence of pointed edges, which during the procedure can injure the skin.
- Combs or small quadrangular devices are used to massage the head.
- A face scraper gouache is made in the form of a fish, a goose foot or a crescent.
- A triangular scraper is used to massage the neck and limbs.
- Square or heart-shaped designed for the back.
- Universal square or rectangular scrapers (the name speaks for itself) are suitable for exposure throughout the body.
Material for scrapers
- For the manufacture of stone is used bian agate jasper. But the most popular is the jade gouache scraper. It is believed that it best removes negative energy.
- Animal bones and horns are natural scrapers that have the ability to harmonize the circulation of energy.
- Plastic.
- Metal, namely brass or copper gouache scraper (improve the elasticity of the epidermis).
Right size
Small thick scrapers are suitable for children and people with a thin physique. Chubby people are advised to use thin or special devices of medium thickness.
When choosing, it should be borne in mind that the sensitivity of the epidermis is different for each person, so during the first procedure, use a thick gouache scraper: it has a more gentle effect.
Types of massage
There are several types of Chinese massage techniques that we will now familiarize ourselves with.
Cosmetic: performed on the face and neck. The movements are strictly along the massage lines. For these purposes, a guasha scraper with rounded edges is used.
It is necessary to do the procedure for people with the following problems:
- acne eruptions;
- pigmentation;
- increased oily skin;
- wrinkles, as well as aging of the epidermis.
Preventive: performed about half an hour and is used to prevent such diseases:
- rheumatism;
- asthma;
- cardiovascular diseases;
- bronchitis;
- osteochondrosis;
- cholecystitis.
Medical: this is the diagnosis and treatment of an already identified disease. A complex procedure where not only the back is involved, but also the limbs, stomach, head and chest area.
Indications for massage with a guasha scraper
Scraper massage should be done:
- with swelling;
- if muscle cramps are a concern;
- inflammation in the tissues;
- withering of the skin;
- with insufficient mobility of the joints.
Contraindications
There are not many contraindications, but nevertheless they are:
- it is not recommended to carry out the procedure during pregnancy;
- massage should be avoided if there is an allergic rash on the skin or other epidermal diseases;
- fresh scratches, scars or wounds;
- with high blood pressure.
Execution technique
Before massage, the epidermis should be cleaned. A steam room or taking a warm bath is perfect for this. In the room where the procedure will be carried out, the temperature should be comfortable and there should be no drafts.
Types of movements and effects:
- Sea Gu. In this technique, presses with the scraper should be intense, moving around the zones is quick. Helps to get rid of the effects of negative factors.
- Boo gua. The pressure is weak, the movements are slow and at the same time smooth. It perfectly relaxes and soothes.
- Ping boo ping se. Presses and movements should be average (between the first and second technique).
Before massage, it is recommended to drink at least half a liter of warm water and drink it for five days after the procedure. The effect will be better if the manipulation is done on an empty stomach. During the massage, in no case should you scratch birthmarks or moles.
The procedure is done up to forty minutes, it all depends on the desired result. Repeatedly carry out it, only when all the bruises and traces from the previous session will pass on the body. Pain, fatigue, or burning may occur, but do not be afraid of them: this is a temporary reaction of the body. After the session, you should dress warmer, drink plenty of warm liquid, and it is also forbidden to take water procedures for six hours.
Facial massage: instruction
- Previously, oil is applied to the skin, and only after that they proceed to the procedure.
- Spend a scraper from the beginning of the eyebrows to the temporal part. Repeat from 5 to 8 times (it all depends on the type of skin).
- Similar movements are carried out from the nose to the temple through the upper cheekbone. Two times on each side.
- From the edge of the lips to the temporal part. Movements are made twenty times on each side.
- From the lower cheekbones to the temporal part.
- The edge of the scraper from the nose to the upper lip, repeat the movement no more than five times.
- From the middle of the lips to the neck through the chin.
- From chin to collarbone.
- Each movement is performed gently, without strong pressure.
For this procedure, judging by the reviews, it is best to buy a guasha scraper from natural components.
Back massage
- A thin layer of oil is applied to the body.
- Preheat the skin with stroking movements. If this is not done, then the muscles will not relax.
- The procedure begins from the cervical vertebra, moving down, while the epidermis is massaged with a scraper. Visually divide your back into small sections and perform up to seven movements on each.
- Similar movements begin to move from the spine to the sides, between the bands they must leave free space up to three centimeters.
- Go to the shoulder blades. The ribs move the devices from the neck to the armpits, on each side they do about twenty times.
- Five movements are made from the spine, moving sideways at the intervals of the ribs.
After the session, a calming lotion is applied.
What oil is suitable for massage
Several types of oil are mixed for massage, they help open the pores, improve the sliding of the scraper, and also prevent bacteria from penetrating the skin.
Examples:
- In equal proportions, cocoa butter, rosehip, coconut, and also vitamin E and vanilla powder are mixed.
- A few drops of vitamin E, tamanu oil and calendula are added to olive oil. Cocoa, green tea extract and mummy are added to the same mixture.
These recipes are suitable for any type of skin.
Some tips
- In the absence of special scrapers, copper coins or ceramic mugs can be used.
- The procedure on the face is done along the massage lines and with the help of a smooth scraper, thanks to this the skin is not stretched.
- For this type of massage, there are special Thai balms (brown - for warming up, white - soothing).
- Drinking plenty of water before and after the procedure helps remove toxins from the body.
This massage technique is great for treating illnesses and relieves nervous tension.